In the quiet serenity of his presence, Thomas found himself continuously accompanied by a cup of black coffee. Today, amidst this tranquility, a photograph of his wedding day with Catherine adorned the scene, capturing their shared happiness. Suddenly, an unexpected intrusion disrupted the atmosphere.
"Well, well, who's the happiest man in the world? Since the wedding day, you've been wearing that triumphant grin as if you're afraid people might not know you just got married," a voice jeered.
"Oh, come on, Matt. I guess you're just envious because you haven't found love like I did. Spit it out. What brings you here?" Thomas replied, attempting to maintain his composure despite Matt's smugness.
Matt's smirk irked Thomas, prompting him to reply, "There's this guy, Jack. From what I've gathered, he's Catherine's ex-boyfriend, and he's currently working on a film project with her. Seems like you're not bothered at all, huh?"
"Catherine did mention this to me before. I hope you can help me keep an eye on Jack. He seems to have some intentions towards my wife," Thomas said, his expression a mix of concern and determination.
Matt sighed, feigning exasperation. "Well, if you want my help, then this weekend, bring Catherine over so I can meet her. You never even let me see her since before you got married."
Thomas playfully hit Matt on the forehead, his tone firm yet amicable. "Fine, deal. But you have to help me keep an eye on Jack."
They shook hands, sealing their commitment.
"Here's what I've gathered about Jack," Thomas pointed towards the documents containing information on Jack.
Jack was a young man, oozing charm and cunning. Born and raised in a wealthy family, he had grown up in an environment of opulence and luxury.
From a young age, Jack had recognized his ability to captivate and hold the attention of others. With his striking looks and confidence, he always became the life of every gathering and event. He used his charm to attract women, becoming quite the ladies' man.
However, his talents extended beyond charming women. Jack possessed a keen intellect and ambition. He wasn't afraid to employ clever and devious tactics to achieve his goals. Through manipulation, he had succeeded in various fields, from business to politics.
As Thomas read about Jack and his history with Catherine, his eyes grew colder. Sensing the change in Thomas's demeanor, Matt chimed in.
"You know, Jack was Catherine's first love. First loves are usually hard to forget. After he found someone better, he just dropped Catherine. Isn't he quite the jerk?"
Thomas slammed his hand on the table, his eyebrows furrowed in frustration. "Alright, he's a despicable man who caused Catherine pain. I'm more determined than ever to confront him and see how skilled he truly is."
Though Thomas had shown his anger in the past, each time Matt witnessed it, he couldn't help but shiver.
Back in high school…
"Hey, kid without a dad, want to come play with us?" Laughter erupted from the group afterward.
One of them sneered, "Come join us, Matt. After all, you're just a fatherless child. Might as well play with another one."
Thomas clenched his fist, his steps purposeful as he approached them, delivering punches in his anger-fueled frenzy.
"You dare say that again, who's the one without a father?" Thomas retorted before he landed a punch on one of them, a strike that resounded with pain. In the tension-filled moment, Matt had to pull Thomas away, leaving the others flailing and shouting, "Who do you call fatherless?"
Their teacher had to intervene, and Thomas faced criticism from other parents. Luckily, Matt's parents managed to smooth things over to spare Thomas any more trouble.
After that, Matt rarely witnessed Thomas lose his temper to such an extent. Until now, as he read about the emotional pain Jack had inflicted on Catherine.
"…"
On the film set…
"Catherine, it's great to bump into you here. I've been looking for you."
"What do you need, Jack? I bought some pastries for you, your favorites from back then."
"Thank you so much." The air felt slightly awkward as Catherine accepted the gesture, not expecting Jack to be at the bakery.
Nicole sensed something amiss from behind and swiftly intervened. "Come on, Catherine. We still have preparations to do."
Catherine greeted Jack and headed to the director. Today, the scene involved Lucy, the actress, being coerced by her management into drinking with a television executive.
The romance between Lucy and Tom remained hidden, with them portraying just actress and manager.
"Lucy, why are you sitting so far? Come sit with me," the executive said while persistently making advances towards Lucy. She evaded his advances, visibly uncomfortable.
"Apologies, but I'm not at ease today. Excuse me…"
"Oh, don't worry, Lucy. It's just a little drink. It'll help us relax and evaluate your work better."
"Thank you, but I really don't want to drink. I respect you and my work."
"Don't be so serious, Lucy. Just give it a try. It won't hurt."
As Lucy felt cornered, Tom stepped in to defend her.
"Apologies, sir, but I prioritize the safety and comfort of our staff. Lucy has politely declined alcohol. I'll ensure she's excused from this situation."
"I can't believe this! I suggested this playfully, wanting to share a moment with her. I didn't think it would be such a big deal. I just wanted to create a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere."
"Nevertheless, sir, the best way to create a comfortable and friendly environment is by respecting and listening to the wishes and boundaries of the staff. We shouldn't force them into activities that make them uncomfortable."
"I never expected an employee like you to oppose my idea. I feel disappointed and angered."
"I apologize for your disappointment, sir, but I must ensure the safety and comfort of all actors. I'm sorry, but we're leaving this situation now."
Tom led Lucy out of the room, leaving an angry and flustered executive behind.
"Cut! Great performance, everyone. We're wrapping up early."
With the day's shooting done, evening had settled. Catherine stood by a window frame, gazing at the streets below as the day faded. Streetlights cast a soft glow, creating a tranquil and serene atmosphere.
Behind her, Jack observed Catherine, much like admiring a breathtaking landscape with only her in it. He forgot his original purpose in being there, lost in silently watching her from behind. Jack disregarded the fact that Thomas and Catherine's marriage was merely contractual. He couldn't fathom why Catherine kept evading him.
"Nicole, do you feel that Jack wants to conquer Catherine? I sense a possessiveness and indulgence in the way he looks at her."
"Oh, Catherine, Thomas and I are just friends. There's no way Jack has any interest in me. It's probably just your imagination."
"Don't underestimate a woman's sixth sense, Catherine."
Exhaustion washed over Catherine like a wave, prompting her to sink into the chair and take a moment to rest. Meanwhile, Nicole continued to drone on about Jack. They say that first loves are the ones that never truly fade, and for Catherine, it was no different. Her entangled history with Jack had managed to erode her trust in him once again.
"How exasperating! I need some sleep to banish that Jack from my thoughts."